Lack of funding for mental health in Northwestern Ontario

The Thunder Bay District Social Services Administration Board is asking the province for more funding to help address addiction and mental health issues. The organization has published a paper in which it says that the non-treatment of these addictions entails significant costs for the rehabilitation of social housing.

For example, in 2016 the agency estimates that 11 housing units were repaired because their tenants did not have support to treat their addiction or mental health problem.

Renovation work totaling $185,000 has been completed in these homes.

Walls, doors, floors, faucets, cabinets and lighting had to be replaced.

Between $1,200 and $3,500 was spent on average to repair damaged social housing.

One of them even had to undergo repairs totaling $30,000, reads the document.

“We are responsible for 2,500 social housing units and a significant number of calls are related to addiction and mental health issues,” says administrator Bill Bradica.

According to him, the province’s willingness to provide social housing to people in shelters is commendable, but more support is needed to help those who are already housed and who are suffering from addiction or mental health problems. to get help so that she can continue to live in their home.

Dr Nancy Miller has over 20 years experience as a educator and health practitioner. She has a B.S. from Lake Head University In Thunder Bay, and a Ph.D. in biology from the University of Guelph . Dr. Miller has worked as a special medical consultant for a major insurance provider before becoming a freelance health author and public speaker. There are several ways to contact Dr. Miller here.